Page 61 - Character Designer's Handbook [2020 Sampler Edition]

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Mixing Inf luencesixing Inf luences
Well-developed characters are a sum of traits from various sources. You should never
rely on just one source of inspiration because this can result in a flat or generic
character with no unique or interesting elements. You can accomplish this by picking
and choosing elements from different sources and then making a wise decision on
what traits to take from what sources. You want to make sure the sources you choose
mesh together well so the process is almost like building the character like a jigsaw
puzzle. All the pieces differ but they fit together somehow.

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Traits to Look Forraits to Look For
There is no defined number of parts to a character so it can be a little confusing what
you need to really take from your sources. The parts are really up to you but you'll
want to look for inspiration on looks & personality mainly. You may also want to look
for inspiration in the areas of things like the character's physical conditions and abilities
as well as their behaviors.preferences and core values.

There isn't really a limit on what and how much you pull from inspirational sources
but by using a number of sources you can definitely ensure the character will be their
own person.

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